James Edward Watts

James Edward Watts, 79, of Stuarts Draft, passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 19, 2024 at his home. James was born in Augusta County to Marie (Bayne) and Woodrow W. Watts on November 18, 1944. James was a longtime resident of Stuarts Draft, and worked for over 20 years at McKee Foods. James loved his family, spending time with his wife, children and grandchildren. He enjoyed any activity that got him outside, including hunting, fishing, working outdoors, and especially driving his dune buggy. In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Judy M. Watts; daughter, Rebecca Edwards; sister, Doris Jean Morris; and a nephew. James is survived by his sons, Keith Watts and Tammy Cowgill of Stuarts Draft, and Richard Watts and wife, Tammy Nutty, of Staunton. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Mackenzie Watts, Brooke Edwards, Jacob Watts and Rachel Watts; sister, Mary Ann Hodges; his lifelong friend, Roger Bartley; as well as one niece, four nephews; and his canine sidekick, Brownie. The family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 24, 2024 at the Stuarts Draft Chapel of Reynolds Hamrick Funeral Homes, 1870 Stuarts Draft Highway, Stuarts Draft. A graveside service will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, October 25, 2024 at Augusta Memorial Park, 1775 Goose Creek Road, Waynesboro. The family wishes to offer a special thanks to James’ caregivers, Melissa Kesterson, Barbara Thompson, Jasmine Kesterson, Russell Lowery, Becca Lowery and Melissa Perry for their constant care and companionship. The family would also like to thank Hospice of the Shenandoah for their expertise and assistance in caring for James. Arrangements entrusted to the Stuarts Draft Chapel of Reynolds Hamrick Funeral Homes. Relatives and friends may share condolences and memories with the family online by visiting www.reynoldshamrickfuneralhomes.com